ICD-10 Code J21.8 – Acute bronchiolitis due to other specified organisms (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J21.8 – Acute bronchiolitis due to other specified organisms
What it is
J21.8 identifies acute bronchiolitis caused by an organism other than the common listed causes. Use it when the provider documents bronchiolitis and specifies another infectious agent.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include cough, wheezing, and increased work of breathing in an acute lower respiratory infection. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the named organism and severity.
When to use this code
Use J21.8 when the record clearly states acute bronchiolitis due to a specified organism that is not otherwise classified in the bronchiolitis category. It fits pediatric or adult documentation when bronchiolitis is the confirmed diagnosis and the causal agent is identified. If the organism is not specified, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for bronchiolitis caused by organisms with their own specific ICD-10 options, or when the note only says “viral bronchiolitis” without further detail. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the organism only when the provider documents it clearly; otherwise, query or use the unspecified option if supported.